Tems Climbs to No. 3 on Billboard’s 10 Hottest R&B Artists of 2026

Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems (Temilade Openiyi) has cemented her position as a global R&B star, ranking No. 3 on Billboard’s “10 Hottest R&B Artists of 2026 So Far” staff picks list, released on July 23, 2026. The annual mid-year ranking, based on criteria such as chart success, vocal performance, musical and lyrical resonance, cultural impact, touring, and business ventures, highlights Tems’ remarkable crossover appeal and artistic growth in 2026.

Tems’ rise is driven by her single “What You Need”, which earned her fourth No. 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart in early July. The track moved from No. 2 to the top for the chart dated July 4, becoming the most-played song on mainstream R&B/hip-hop radio stations during the June 19-25 tracking week. It marked her first solo radio No. 1 in three years, following previous hits like her feature on Wizkid’s “Essence” (2021) and “Free Mind” (2022). The song also performed well on Adult R&B Airplay and boosted her Hot 100 momentum, reaching a new peak of No. 36.

Her stunning, stripped-down performance of “What You Need” at the 2026 BET Awards further amplified the buzz, showcasing the “angelic” vocal talent praised by Billboard in their profile.

Billboard noted that while Tems is often linked to Afrobeats, her vocal tone and songwriting are “undoubtedly R&B.” Her highlights in 2026 include Hot 100 entries with features on Dave’s “Raindance” and J. Cole’s “Bounce Road Blues” (with Future), strengthening her record as one of the most successful African artists on U.S. charts alongside Burna Boy.

This recognition underscores Tems’ role in proving “genres are becoming a thing of the past,” blending soulful R&B with global sounds to connect across borders.

Kehlani led the list at No. 1, riding the success of her Hot 100 hit “Folded,” followed by Leon Thomas at No. 2. Tems ranked No. 3, ahead of RAYE (No. 4) and others including Chris Brown, GIVĒON, and Jill Scott. The list celebrates R&B’s thriving state in 2026, with a mix of veterans and emerging stars achieving strong chart success, touring, and cultural moments.

This ranking arrives during a standout year for the artist, who has steadily built a distinctive catalog blending vulnerability, groove, and innovation. From early collaborations to solo dominance, Tems continues to expand R&B’s global footprint while staying true to her roots. Her No. 3 spot is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to her powerful voice and growing influence in contemporary music.